Observer-rated environmental sensitivity moderates children's response to parenting quality in early childhood

By Lionetti, F., Klein, D. N., Aron, A., Aron, E., & Pluess, M. (2019), Developmental Psychology.

This empirical paper introduces the first observational measure of sensitivity for three-year-old children, the Highly Sensitive Child-Rating System (HSC-RS).

Key takeaways

Some children seem to feel everything more strongly — loud noises, changes in routine, big emotions. These are often signs of a highly sensitive child (HSC). But how can we really tell if a toddler is highly sensitive, especially at such a young age?

A new study introduces a groundbreaking tool: the Highly Sensitive Child-Rating System (HSC-RS). This is the first observational method to assess sensitivity in children as young as three years old — and it’s a game-changer.

How does the HSC-RS work?

Instead of relying on parent questionnaires or checklists, trained experts observe the child in standardised situations. For example:

• How does the child react to a loud sound?

• What happens when they are gently corrected?

• How do they respond to changes or surprises?

By watching real-life reactions, the HSC-RS gives a more objective and reliable picture of a child’s sensory and emotional sensitivity.

Why is this important?

Because sensitivity matters. A lot.

The study found that sensitive children are more strongly influenced by the quality of parenting they receive.

• When parenting is warm, responsive, and supportive, highly sensitive children are more likely to develop strong social skills, confidence, and emotional balance.

• But if the parenting is less attuned or harsh, these children are more vulnerable. They are at a higher risk for both externalising behaviours (like tantrums or aggression) and internalising issues (like anxiety or withdrawal).

This is called differential susceptibility — the idea that some children are simply more shaped by their environment, for better or worse.

What does this mean for parents of sensitive children?

If you recognise signs of sensory sensitivity in your child — intense emotions, big reactions, quick overstimulation — you’re not alone. And this research offers an encouraging message:

Sensitive children don’t just need “more” — they respond more to the right kind of support.

With consistent, attuned, and calm parenting, these children can thrive.
They are often insightful, empathetic, and creative — but they may need help managing the intensity of their world.

* Information based on research by Lionetti et al. (2019), published in Developmental Psychology